Display panel and method of manufacturing the same

ABSTRACT

A display panel includes a first pixel electrode electrically connected to a first switching electrode, and includes a plurality of first branches forming micro slits, a second pixel electrode electrically connected to a second switching electrode, and including a plurality of second branches forming micro slits, and a third pixel electrode electrically connected to a third switching electrode, and including a plurality of third branches forming micro slits. The first branches are spaced apart from each other by a first space, and have a first width. The second branches are spaced apart from each other by a second space, and have a second width. The third branches are spaced apart from each other by a third space, and have a third width. At least one of the first width, the second width and the third width is different from the other widths.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No.10-2013-0102500, filed on Aug. 28, 2013, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

1. TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a display panel and a method ofmanufacturing the display panel.

More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a display panel fora liquid crystal display apparatus and a method of manufacturing thedisplay panel.

2. DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Recently, a liquid crystal display apparatus having light weight andsmall size has been manufactured. A cathode ray tube (CRT) displayapparatus has been used due to its performance and competitive price.However, the CRT display apparatus may have difficulties with regard toits size or portability. Therefore, the liquid crystal display apparatushas been highly regarded due to its small size, light weight and lowpower consumption.

The liquid crystal display apparatus includes a pixel electrode, acommon electrode facing the pixel electrode, and a liquid crystal layerdisposed between the pixel electrode and the common electrode. A texturemay be formed at a display area on which an image is displayed, so thatthe traditional liquid crystal display apparatus may have difficultywith regard to degradation of its display quality due to the texture.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a display panel capableof increasing display quality.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention also provide a method ofmanufacturing the display panel.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a display panelincludes a first data line, a second data line spaced apart from thefirst data line, a third data line spaced apart from the first dataline, a first switching electrode electrically connected to the firstdata line, a second switching electrode electrically connected to thesecond data line, a third switching electrode electrically connected tothe third data line, a first pixel electrode electrically connected tothe first switching electrode, and including a plurality of firstbranches forming micro slits, a second pixel electrode electricallyconnected to the second switching electrode, and including a pluralityof second branches forming micro slits, and a third pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the third switching electrode, and including aplurality of third branches forming micro slits. The first branches arespaced apart from each other by a first space, and have a first width.The second branches are spaced apart from each other by a second space,and have a second width. The third branches are spaced apart from eachother by a third space, and have a third width. At least one of thefirst width, the second width and the third width is different from theother widths.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first width may be smaller than thesecond width and the third width.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second width may be substantially thesame as the third width.

In an exemplary embodiment, a first pitch may be defined by a sum of thefirst space and the first width. A second pitch may be defined by a sumof the second space and the second width, a third pitch is defined by asum of the third space and the third width. The first pitch, the secondpitch and the third pitch may be substantially the same as each other.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first, second and third pitch may beabout 6 μm (micrometer). The first width is about 3.4 μm, and the secondand third width may be about 3.5 μm.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel electrode may include afirst stem extending in a first direction and a second stem crossing thefirst stem and extending in a second direction which is substantiallyperpendicular to the first direction. The first branches may extend fromthe first stem or second stem in a third direction which is differentfrom the first and second directions. The second pixel electrode mayinclude a first stem extending the first direction and a second stemcrossing the first stem and extending in the second direction. Thesecond branches may extend from the first stem or second stem in thethird direction. The third pixel electrode may include a first stemextending in the first direction and a second stem crossing the firststem and extending in the second direction. The third branches mayextend from the first stem or second stem in the third direction.

In an exemplary embodiment, ends of an adjacent pair of the firstbranches may be connected with each other at a boundary of the firstpixel electrode such that the ends of the adjacent pair of firstbranches form a closed structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, ends of an adjacent pair of the firstbranches at a boundary of the first pixel electrode may be spaced apartfrom each other such that the ends of the adjacent pair of the firstbranches form an opened structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first branches of the closed structureadjacent to each other may form an opening. A side of opening which maybe adjacent to the boundary of the first pixel electrode makes a firstangle with a line which extends along the boundary of the first pixelelectrode.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel may further include afirst color filter overlapping with the first pixel electrode and havinga first color, a second color filter overlapping the second pixelelectrode and having a second color different from the first color, anda third color filter overlapping with the third pixel electrode andhaving a third color different from the first and second colors.

In an exemplary embodiment, a boundary of the second color filter mayoverlap with a first boundary of the first color filter. A boundary ofthe third color filter may overlap with a second boundary of the firstcolor filter. The second boundary may be disposed opposite to the firstboundary of the first color filter.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first color of the first color filtermay be red.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first color filter may have a firstthickness. The second color filter may have a second thickness. Thethird color filter has a third thickness. The first thickness may besmaller than the second and third thickness.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first data line may include a first highdata line and a first low data line, the second data line comprises asecond high data line and a second low data line, the third data linecomprises a third high data line and a third low data line. The firstswitching element may include a first high switching elementelectrically connected to the first high data line and a first lowswitching element electrically connected to the first low data line. Thesecond switching element may include a second high switching elementelectrically connected to the second high data line and a second lowswitching element electrically connected to the second low data line.The third switching element may include a third high switching elementelectrically connected to the third high data line and a third lowswitching element electrically connected to the third low data line. Thefirst pixel electrode may include a first high pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the first high switching element and a firstlow pixel electrode electrically connected to the first low switchingelement. The second pixel electrode may include a second high pixelelectrode electrically connected to the second high switching elementand a second low pixel electrode electrically connected to the secondlow switching element. The third pixel electrode may include a thirdhigh pixel electrode electrically connected to the third high switchingelement and a third low pixel electrode electrically connected to thethird low switching element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel may include a shieldingelectrode disposed between the first pixel electrode, the second pixelelectrode and the third pixel electrode, and the shielding electrode mayoverlap with the first data line, the second data line and the thirddata line.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method ofmanufacturing a display panel includes forming a first switchingelement, a second switching element, and a third switching element on abase substrate, and forming a first pixel electrode, a second pixelelectrode and a third pixel electrode which are respectively connectedto the first switching element, the second switching element and thethird switching element on the base substrate on which the firstswitching element, the second switching element and the third switchingelements are formed. The first pixel electrode includes a plurality offirst branches having a first width. The first branches are spaced apartfrom each other by a first space. The second pixel electrode includes aplurality of second branches having a second width. The second branchesare spaced apart from each other by a second space. The third pixelelectrode may include a plurality of third branches having a thirdwidth. The third branches are spaced apart from each other by a thirdspace.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first width may be smaller than thesecond width and the third width.

In an exemplary embodiment, ends of an adjacent pair of the firstbranches may be connected with each other at a boundary of the firstpixel electrode such that the ends of the adjacent pair of the firstbranches form a closed structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, ends of an adjacent pair of the firstbranches at a boundary of the first pixel electrode may be spaced apartfrom each other such that the ends of the adjacent pair of the firstbranches form an opened structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, before the forming of the first pixelelectrode, the second pixel electrode, and the third pixel electrode,the method may further includes forming a first color filtercorresponding to the first pixel electrode on the base substrate onwhich the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and thethird pixel electrode are formed, and the first color filter has a firstcolor, and forming a second color filter corresponding to the secondpixel electrode on the base substrate on which the first color filter isformed, and the second color filter has a second color, and forming athird color filter corresponding to the third pixel electrode on thebase substrate on which the first color filter and the second colorfilter are formed. The third color filter has a second color.

In an exemplary embodiment, a boundary of the second color filter mayoverlap with a first boundary of the first color filter. A boundary ofthe third color filter may overlap with a second boundary of the firstcolor filter. The second boundary may be disposed opposite to the firstboundary of the first color filter.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first color filter may have a firstthickness. The second color filter may have a second thickness. Thethird color filter may have a third thickness. The first thickness maybe smaller than the second thickness and the third thickness.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a display panel is provided.The display panel includes a first data line, a second data line spacedapart from the first data line, a third data line spaced apart from thefirst data line, a first switching electrode electrically connected tothe first data line, a second switching electrode electrically connectedto the second data line, a third switching electrode electricallyconnected to the third data line, a first pixel electrode electricallyconnected to the first switching electrode, and including a plurality offirst branches forming micro slits, in which the first branches includea first sub-branch and a second sub-branch connected to each other at aboundary of the first pixel electrode such that a first opening isdefined between the first sub-branch and the second sub-branch and inwhich a side of the first opening which is adjacent to the boundary ofthe first pixel electrode makes a first angle with a line extendingalong the boundary of the first pixel electrode, and in which the firstsub-branches and the second sub-branches of the first branches of thefirst pixel electrode are spaced apart from adjacent first and secondsub-branches of the first pixel electrode by a first space, and have afirst width.

In addition, the display panel further includes a second pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the second switching electrode, and includes aplurality of second branches forming micro slits, in which the secondbranches include a first sub-branch and a second sub-branch connected toeach other at a boundary of the second pixel electrode such that asecond opening is defined between the first sub-branch and the secondsub-branch and in which a side of the second opening which is adjacentto the boundary of the second pixel electrode makes a second angle witha line extending along the boundary of the second pixel electrode, andin which the first sub-branches and the second sub-branches of thesecond branches of the second pixel electrode are spaced apart fromadjacent first and second sub-branches of the second pixel electrode bya second space, and have a second width.

Also, the display panel further includes a third pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the third switching electrode, and including aplurality of third branches forming micro slits, in which the thirdbranches include a first sub-branch and a second sub-branch connected toeach other at a boundary of the third pixel electrode such that a thirdopening is defined between the first sub-branch and the secondsub-branch and in which a side of the third opening which is adjacent tothe boundary of the third pixel electrode makes a third angle with aline extending along the boundary of the third pixel electrode, and inwhich the first sub-branches and the second sub-branches of the thirdbranches of the third pixel electrode are spaced apart from adjacentfirst and second sub-branches of the third pixel electrode by a thirdspace, and have a third width.

At least one of the first width, the second width and the third width isdifferent from the other widths.

According to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, adisplay panel includes a first pixel electrode including branches havinga first width, a second pixel electrode including branches having asecond width, and a third pixel electrode including branches having athird width. The first width is smaller than the second width or thethird width, so that a texture formed at the boundary of the first pixelelectrode may be decreased. Thus, the display quality of the displaypanel may be increased.

In addition, the display panel includes a first color filtercorresponding to the first pixel electrode, a second color filtercorresponding to the second pixel electrode and a third color filtercorresponding to the third pixel electrode. The first width of the firstpixel electrode is smaller than the second width or the third width, sothat a texture formed at the boundary of the first pixel electrode maybe decreased. Thus, the display quality of the display panel may beincreased.

In addition, a boundary shape of the first pixel electrode, the secondpixel electrode and the third pixel electrode has open or closedstructure, so that a texture at the display area of the display panelmay be decreased. Thus, the display quality of the display panel may beincreased.

In addition, the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode andthe third pixel electrode include a sloped side having a first angle ata boundary of the pixel electrode, so that a texture at the display areaof the display panel may be decreased. Thus, the display quality of thedisplay panel may be increased.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention can be understood in more detailfrom the following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display panel according to anexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line I-I′ of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line II-IF of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof the display panel of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a second pixel electrodeof the display panel of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 7 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 8 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 9 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a display panel according to anexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line IV-IV′ of FIG. 10;and

FIGS. 13A to 13H are cross-sectional views illustrating a method ofmanufacturing the display panel of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be explained indetail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display panel according to anexemplary embodiment of the invention. The display panel includes, forexample, a plurality of unit pixels, and one of the unit pixelsincluding first to third pixels is described in the figure.

Referring to FIG. 1, a display panel includes, for example, a gate lineGL, a first data line DL1, a second data line DL2, a third data lineDL3, a first switching element SW1, a second switching element SW2, athird switching element SW3, a first pixel electrode 150, a second pixelelectrode 160, a third pixel electrode 170 and a shielding electrodeSDE.

The gate line GL extends, for example, in a first direction D1. The gateline GL is electrically connected to a first gate electrode of the firstswitching element SW1, a second gate electrode of the second switchingelement SW2 and a third gate electrode of the third switching elementSW3. A gate signal is applied to the gate line GL.

The first data line DL1 extends, for example, in a second direction D2which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1. Thefirst data line DL1 crosses the gate line GL. The first data line DL1 iselectrically connected to a first source electrode of the firstswitching element SW1. A first data signal is applied to the first dataline DL1.

The second data line DL2 extends, for example, in the second directionD2, and is spaced apart from the first data line DL1. The second dataline DL2 crosses the gate line GL. The second data line DL2 iselectrically connected to a second source electrode of the secondswitching element SW2. A second data signal is applied to the seconddata line DL2.

The third data line DL3 extends, for example, in the second directionD2, and is spaced apart from the first data line DL1. The third dataline DL3 crosses the gate line GL. The third data line DL3 iselectrically connected to a third source electrode of the thirdswitching element SW3. The third data line DL3 is, for example, disposedopposite to the second data line DL2 with reference to the first dataline DL1. A third data signal is applied to the third data line DL3.

The first switching element SW1 includes, for example, the first gateelectrode, a first source electrode, a first drain electrode and a firstchannel layer. The first gate electrode is electrically connected to thegate line GL. The first source electrode is electrically connected tothe first data line DL1. The first drain electrode is electricallyconnected to the first pixel electrode 150 through a first contact holeH1. A detailed explanation about the first switching element SW1 will bementioned in connection with FIG. 3.

The second switching element SW2 includes, for example, the second gateelectrode, a second source electrode, a second drain electrode and asecond channel layer. The second gate electrode is electricallyconnected to the gate line GL. The second source electrode iselectrically connected to the second data line DL2. The second drainelectrode is electrically connected to the second pixel electrode 160through a second contact hole H2.

The third switching element SW3 includes, for example, the third gateelectrode, a third source electrode, a third drain electrode and a thirdchannel layer. The third gate electrode is electrically connected to thegate line GL. The third source electrode is electrically connected tothe third data line DL3. The third drain electrode is electricallyconnected to the third pixel electrode 170 through a third contact holeH3.

The first pixel electrode 150 is disposed adjacent to the gate line GL,and disposed between the first data line DL1 and the second data lineDL2. The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, a plurality ofbranches forming a micro-slit pattern. A detailed explanation about thefirst pixel electrode 150 will be mentioned in connection with FIG. 4.

The second pixel electrode 160 is disposed adjacent to the gate line GL,and disposed between the second data line DL2 and a third data line DL3of an adjacent unit pixel in the second direction D2. The second pixelelectrode 160 includes, for example, a plurality of branches forming amicro-slit pattern. A detailed explanation about the second pixelelectrode 160 will be mentioned in connection with FIG. 5.

The third pixel electrode 170 is disposed adjacent to the gate line GL,and disposed between the second data line DL2 and the third data lineDL3. The third pixel electrode 170 includes, for example, a plurality ofbranches forming a micro-slit pattern. The third pixel electrode 170 issubstantially the same as the second pixel electrode 160, so that adetailed explanation about the third pixel electrode 170 will bementioned referring to FIG. 5.

The shielding electrode SDE extends, for example, in the seconddirection D2, and overlaps the first to third data lines DL1, DL2 andDL3. A shielding voltage is applied to the shielding electrode SDE. Forexample, a common voltage which is applied to a common electrode (e.g.,refers to 220 of FIG. 2) may be applied to the shielding electrode SDE.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line I-I′ of FIG. 1. FIG.3 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line II-IF of FIG. 1. Althoughthe figures illustrate a portion corresponding to a first switchingelement (e.g., refers to SW1 of FIG. 1), portions corresponding tosecond and third switching element (e.g., refers to SW2, SW3 of FIG. 1)may be substantially the same.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a display panel includes, for example, afirst substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate, and aliquid crystal layer 3 disposed between the first and second substrate.

The first substrate includes, for example, a first base substrate 100, agate pattern, a first insulation layer 110, a channel layer CH, a datapattern, a first color filter 122, a second color filter 124, a thirdcolor filter 126, a second insulation layer 130, a first pixel electrode150, a second pixel electrode 160, a third pixel electrode 170 and ashielding electrode SDE.

The first base substrate 100 may include, for example, a material whichhas relatively high transmittance, thermal resistance, and chemicalresistance. For example, the first base substrate 100 may include anyone selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, or plastic.Further, in an embodiment, the first base substrate 100 may be, forexample, a flexible substrate. Suitable materials for the flexiblesubstrate include, for example, polyethylenenaphthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, polyacryl, polyimide, polyethersulfone, polyvinylchloride, and a mixture thereof.

The gate pattern is disposed on the first base substrate 100. The gatepattern includes, for example, a gate line (e.g., refers to GL of FIG.1), a first gate electrode GE1, a second gate electrode and a third gateelectrode.

The first insulation layer 110 is disposed on the first base substrate100 on which the gate pattern is disposed. The first insulation layer110 covers and insulates the gate line, the first gate electrode GE1,the second gate electrode and the third gate electrode.

The channel layer CH is disposed on the first insulation layer 110. Thechannel layer CH includes, for example, a first channel portion CH1, asecond channel portion and a third channel portion. The first channelportion CH1 overlaps, for example, the first gate electrode GE1. Thesecond channel portion overlaps, for example, the second gate electrode.The third channel portion overlaps, for example, the third gateelectrode.

The data pattern is disposed on the channel layer CH. The data patternincludes, for example, a first drain electrode DE1, a first sourceelectrode SE1, a second drain electrode, a second source electrode, athird drain electrode, a third source electrode, a first data line DL1,a second data line DL2, and a third data line DL3.

The first gate electrode GE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the firstsource electrode SE1 and the first channel portion CH1 compose a firstswitching element SW1. The second gate electrode, the second drainelectrode, the second source electrode and the second channel portioncompose a second switching element (e.g., refers to SW2 of FIG. 1). Thethird gate electrode, the third drain electrode, the third sourceelectrode and the third channel portion compose a third switchingelement (e.g., refers to SW3 of FIG. 1).

The first color filter 122 is disposed on the first insulation layer110, and between the first data line DL1 and the second data line DL2.The first color filter 122 supplies colors to the light passing throughthe liquid crystal layer 3. The first color filter 122 may have a firstcolor. For example, the first color filter 122 may be a red color filterwhich passes a red light. The first color filter 122 has a firstthickness t1.

The second color filter 124 is disposed on the first insulation layer110 on which the first color filter 122 is disposed, and between thesecond data line DL2 and a third data line DL3 of an adjacent pixel in afirst direction (e.g., refers to D1 of FIG. 1). The second color filter124 supplies colors to the light passing through the liquid crystallayer 3. The second color filter 124 may have a second color. Forexample, the second color filter 124 may be a green color filter whichpasses a green light. The second color filter 124 has a second thicknesst2.

A boundary of the first color filter 122 and a boundary of the secondcolor filter 124, for example, overlap each other on the second dataline DL2. Thus, the first color filter 122 partially overlaps the seconddata line DL2. The second color filter 124 is disposed on the seconddata line DL2 and the first color filter 122, so that the second colorfilter 124, for example, partially overlaps the second data line DL2 andthe first color filter 122.

The third color filter 126 is disposed on the first insulation layer 110on which the first and second color filters 122 and 124 are disposed,and between the first data line DL1 and the third data line DL3. Thethird color filter 126 supplies colors to the light passing through theliquid crystal layer 3. The third color filter 126 may have a thirdcolor. For example, the third color filter 126 may be a blue colorfilter which passes a blue light. The third color filter 126 has a thirdthickness t3.

A boundary of the third color filter 126 and a boundary of the firstcolor filter 122, for example, overlap each other on the first data lineDL1. Thus, the first color filter 122, for example, partially overlapsthe first data line DL1. The third color filter 126 is disposed on thefirst data line DL1 and the first color filter 122, so that the thirdcolor filter 126, for example, partially overlaps the first data lineDL1 and the first color filter 122.

The first thickness t1, the second thickness t2, and the third thicknesst3 may be same each other or different from each other according to amanufacturing process of the color filters. For example, the firstthickness t1 may be smaller than the second and third thickness t2 andt3.

The second insulation layer 130 is disposed on the first to third colorfilters 122, 124 and 126. The second insulation layer 130 flattens,protects and insulates the first to third color filters 122, 124 and126.

The first pixel electrode 150 is disposed on the second insulation layer130, and is electrically connected to the first drain electrode DE1 ofthe first switching element SW1. The first pixel electrode 150 mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, first and secondstems, and branches (refers to FIG. 4). The branches of the first pixelelectrode 150 form a micro slit structure. The branch of the first pixelelectrode 150 is spaced apart from an adjacent branch by a first spaceS1, and has a first width W1. Thus, the branches have, for example, afirst pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).

The second pixel electrode 160 is disposed on the second insulationlayer 130, and is electrically connected to the second drain electrodeof the second switching element SW2. The second pixel electrode 160 mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The second pixel electrode 160 includes, for example, first and secondstems, and branches (e.g., refers to FIG. 5). The branches of the secondpixel electrode 160 form, for example, a micro slit structure. Thebranch of the second pixel electrode 160 is spaced apart from anadjacent branch by a second space S2, and has a second width W2. Thus,the branches have, for example, a second pitch P2 (P2=W2+S2).

The third pixel electrode 170 is disposed on the second insulation layer130, and is electrically connected to the third drain electrode of thethird switching electrode. The third pixel electrode 170 may include,for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide(ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmiumzinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO). The third pixelelectrode 170 includes, for example, first and second stems, andbranches (e.g., refers to FIG. 5). The branches of the third pixelelectrode 170 form, for example, a micro slit structure. The branch ofthe third pixel electrode 170 is spaced apart from an adjacent branch bya third space S3, and has a third width W3. Thus, the branches have, forexample, a third pitch P3 (P3=W3+S3).

The shielding electrode SDE is disposed on the second insulation layer130. The shielding electrode SDE, for example, overlaps the first tothird data lines DL1, DL2 and DL3. The shielding electrode SDE and thefirst to third pixel electrodes 150, 160 and 170 may be formed from, forexample, the same material as each other. Thus, the shielding electrodeSDE may include, for example, a transparent conductive material, such asindium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zincoxide (AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide(a-ITO).

The second substrate includes, for example, a second base substrate 200,a black matrix BM, an over-coating layer 210 and a common electrode 220.

The second base substrate 200 may include, for example, a material whichhas relatively high transmittance, thermal resistance, and chemicalresistance. For example, the second base substrate 200 may include anyone selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, or plastic.Further, in an embodiment, the second base substrate 200 may be, forexample, a flexible substrate. Suitable materials for the flexiblesubstrate include, for example, polyethylenenaphthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, polyacryl, polyimide, polyethersulfone, polyvinylchloride, and a mixture thereof.

The black matrix BM is disposed on, for example, the second basesubstrate 200. The black matrix BM includes a light blocking martial.The black matrix BM may be disposed, for example, in a peripheral areaadjacent to a display area on which an image is disposed. Thus, theblack matrix BM may, for example, overlap the first to third switchingelements SW1, SW2 and SW3, the gate line GL, and the first to third datalines DL1, DL2 and DL3.

The over-coating layer 210 is disposed on the second base substrate 200on which the black matrix BM is disposed. The over-coating layer 210protects black matrix BM. The over-coating layer 210 may include, forexample, an organic material. For example, in an embodiment, theover-coating layer 210 may include an acrylic-epoxy material

The common electrode 220 is disposed on the over-coating layer 210. Thecommon electrode 220 may include, for example, a transparent conductivematerial, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO)aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO), or amorphousindium tin oxide (a-ITO).

The liquid crystal layer 3 is disposed between the first substrate andthe second substrate. The liquid crystal layer 3 includes liquid crystalmolecules having optical anisotropy. The liquid crystal molecules aredriven by an electric field, so that an image is displayed by passing orblocking light through the liquid crystal layer 3.

FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof the display panel of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, a first pixel electrode 150 includes, forexample, a first stem 152, a second stem 154 and a plurality of branches156 extending from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154.

The first stem 152 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 154 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 152. The first stem 152 and the second stem 154 may, forexample, pass the center of the first pixel electrode 150, so that thefirst stem 152 and the second stem 154 divide the first pixel electrode150 into four domains which have the same area as each other. Each ofthe domains has, for example, a plurality of branches 156 extending fromthe first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The branches 156 may, forexample, be extended in different directions in each of the domains. Thebranches 156 form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 4, the branches 156 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different form the first and seconddirections D1 and D2. The branch 156 is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch 156 by a first space S1. The branch 156 has a first width W1.Thus, the branches 156 have, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).(e.g., refers to a fourth direction D4 perpendicular to the thirddirection D3.)

For example, ends of the branches 156 at a boundary of the first pixelelectrode 150 are spaced apart each other, so that the ends of thebranches 156 have an open structure.

FIG. 5 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a second pixel electrodeof the display panel of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, a second pixel electrode 160 includes, forexample, a first stem 162, a second stem 164 and a plurality of branches166 extending from the first stem 162 or the second stem 164.

The first stem 162 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 164 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 162. The first stem 162 and the second stem 164 may, forexample, pass the center of the second pixel electrode 160, so that thefirst stem 162 and the second stem 164 divide the second pixel electrode160 into four domains which have the same area as each other. Each ofthe domains has, for example, a plurality of branches 166 extending fromthe first stem 162 or the second stem 164. The branches 166 may beextended, for example, in different directions in each of the domains.The branches 166 form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 5, the branches 166 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 162 or the second stem 164. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different from the first and seconddirections D1 and D2. The branch 166 is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch 166 by a second space S2. The branch 166 has a second width W2.Thus, the branches 266 have, for example, a second pitch P2 (P2=W2+S2).(e.g., refers to a fourth direction D4 perpendicular to the thirddirection D3.)

For example, ends of the branches 166 at a boundary of the second pixelelectrode 160 are spaced apart each other, so that the ends of thebranches 166 have an open structure.

The third pixel electrode 170 includes, for example, a first stem, asecond stem, and a plurality of branches. The third pixel electrode 170is, for example, substantially the same as the second pixel electrode160. The branches of the third pixel electrode 170 have, for example, athird pitch (refers to P3 of FIG. 2), a third width (e.g., refers to W3of FIG. 2) and a third space (e.g., refers to S3 of FIG. 2).

The first pitch P1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, the same as the second pitch P2 of the branches 166of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the second pitch P2 ofthe branches 166 of the second pixel electrode 160 may be, for example,the same as the third pitch P3 of the branches the third pixel electrode170.

For example, the first pitch P1, the second pitch P2 and the third pitchP3 may be about 6 μm (micrometer).

The first width W1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, smaller than the second width W2 of the branches166 of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the first width W1of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150 may be smaller thanthird width W3 of the branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

For example, the first width W1 may be about 3.4 μm (micrometer), andthe second and third widths W2 and W3 may be about 3.5 μm (micrometer).

The first space S1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, larger than the second space S2 of the branches 166of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the first space S1 ofthe branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,larger than third space S3 of the branches of the third pixel electrode170.

For example, the first space S1 may be about 2.6 um (micrometer), andthe second and third spaces S2 and S3 may be about 2.5 μm (micrometer).

Accordingly, the first width W1 of the branches 156 of the first pixelelectrode 150 may be, for example, smaller than the second width W2 ofthe branches 166 of the second pixel electrode 160 and/or the thirdwidth W3 of the branches of the third pixel electrode 170. Thus, atexture only formed in the first pixel electrode 150 may be controlledwith minimizing decrease of transmittance. The second width W2 of thesecond pixel electrode 160 and the third width W3 of the third pixelelectrode 170 are, for example, larger than the first width W1 of thefirst pixel electrode 150, so that transmittance of the second and thirdpixel electrodes 160 and 170 may not be decreased.

FIG. 6 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, a first pixel electrode 150 includes, forexample, a first stem 152, a second stem 154 and a plurality of branches156 extending from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154.

The first stem 152 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 154 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 152. The first stem 152 and the second stem 154 may, forexample, pass the center of the first pixel electrode 150, so that thefirst stem 152 and the second stem 154 divide the first pixel electrode150 into four domains which have the same area as each other. Each ofthe domains has, for example, a plurality of branches extending from thefirst stem 152 or the second stem 154. The branches 156 may be extended,for example, in different directions in each of the domains. Thebranches 156 form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 6, the branches 156 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different form the first and seconddirections D1 and D2. The branch 156 is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch 156 by a first space S1. The branch 156 has a first width W1.Thus, the branches have, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).(e.g., refers to a fourth direction D4 perpendicular to the thirddirection D3.)

For example, ends of the branches 156 at a boundary of the first pixelelectrode 150 are connected to each other, so that the ends of thebranches 156 form a closed structure. Thus, the branches 156 form aplurality of openings 157. The openings 157 include, for example, afirst and second sides 157 a and 157 b contacting with adjacent branches156, a third side 157 c adjacent to the first or second stems 152 and154, and a fourth side 157 d adjacent to a boundary of the first pixelelectrode 150. The fourth side 157 d forms, for example, a first angle αwith a line extending along the boundary of the first pixel electrode150.

Thus, a slope is formed at the boundary of the openings of the firstpixel electrode 150, and a texture formed at the boundary of the firstpixel electrode 150 may be decreased.

The second pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 160 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat branches 166 have a second pitch (e.g., refers to P2 of FIG. 2), asecond width (e.g., refers to W2 of FIG. 2), and a second space (e.g.,refers to S2 of FIG. 2). Thus, any further detailed descriptionsconcerning the same elements will be omitted.

The third pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 170 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat branches of the third pixel electrode have a third pitch (e.g.,refers to P3 of FIG. 2), a third width (e.g., refers to W3 of FIG. 2),and a third space (e.g., refers to S3 of FIG. 2). Thus, any furtherdetailed descriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The first pitch P1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, substantially the same as the second pitch P2 ofthe second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the second pitch P2 of thebranches 166 of the second pixel electrode 160 may be, for example,substantially the same as the third pitch P3 of the branches of thethird pixel electrode 170.

The first width W1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, smaller than the second width W2 of the branches166 of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the first width W1of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, forexample, smaller than the third width W3 of the branches of the thirdpixel electrode 170.

The first space S1 of the branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, larger than the second space S2 of the branches 166of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the first space S1 ofthe branches 156 of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,larger than the third space S3 of the branches of the third pixelelectrode 170.

FIG. 7 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

Referring to FIG. 7, the first pixel electrode 150 is, for example,substantially the same as a first pixels electrode of FIG. 6, except forthe first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b. Thus, any furtherdetailed descriptions concerning the same elements will be brieflydescribed or omitted.

The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, a first stem 152, asecond stem 154, and a plurality of branches 156 extending from thefirst stem 152 or the second stem 154.

The first stem 152 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 154 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 152. The first stem 152 and the second stem 154 may, forexample, pass the center of the first pixel electrode 150, so that thefirst stem 152 and the second stem 154 divide the first pixel electrode150 into four domains which have the same area as each other. Each ofthe domains has, for example, a plurality of branches 156 extending fromthe first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The branches 156 may beextended, for example, in different directions in each of the domains.The branches form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 7, the branches 156 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different from the first and seconddirections D1 and D2.

Each of the branches 156 includes, for example, a first sub-branch 156 aand a second sub-branch 156 b. The first sub-branch 156 a extends, forexample, in the third direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the secondstem 154. The second sub-branch 156 b extends, for example, in the thirddirection D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The firstsub-branch 156 a and the second sub-branch 156 b are connected to eachother at a boundary of the first pixel electrode 150. Thus, an openingis formed between the first sub-branch 156 a and the second sub-branch156 b. A side of the opening which is adjacent to the boundary of thefirst pixel electrode 150 makes, for example, a first angle (e.g.,refers α of FIG. 6) with a line extending along the boundary.

Each of the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b are spacedapart from adjacent first or second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b by afirst space S1. The first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b have afirst width W1. Thus, the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 bhave, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1). (e.g., refers to afourth direction D4 perpendicular to the third direction D3.)

The second pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 160 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b have a secondpitch, a second width, and a second space. Thus, any further detaileddescriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The third pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 170 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b have a thirdpitch, a third width, and a third space. Thus, any further detaileddescriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The first pitch P1 of the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 bof the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, substantially thesame as the second pitch of the first and second sub-branches of thesecond pixel electrode 160. In addition, the second pitch of the firstand second sub-branches of the second pixel electrode 160 may be, forexample, substantially the same as the third pitch of the first andsecond sub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

The first width W1 of the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 bof the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, substantially thesame as the second width of the first and second sub-branches of thesecond pixel electrode 160. In addition, the first width W1 of the firstand second sub-branches 156 a and 156 b of the first pixel electrode 150may be, for example, smaller than the third width of the first andsecond sub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

The first space S1 of the first and second sub-branches 156 a and 156 bof the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, larger than thesecond space of the first and second sub-branches of the second pixelelectrode 160. In addition, the first space S1 of the first and secondsub-branches 156 a and 156 b of the first pixel electrode 150 may be,for example, larger than the third space of the first and secondsub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

FIG. 8 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

Referring to FIG. 8, the first pixel electrode 150 is, for example,substantially the same as the first pixel electrode of FIG. 7, exceptthat a branch 156 includes first to third sub-branches 156 a to 156 c.Thus, any further detailed descriptions concerning the same elementswill be omitted.

The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, a first stem 152, asecond stem 154, and a plurality of branches 156 extending from thefirst stem 152 or the second stem 154.

The first stem 152 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 154 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 152. The first stem 152 and the second stem 154 may, forexample, pass the center of the first pixel electrode 150, so that thefirst stem 152 and the second stem 154 divide the first pixel electrode150 into four domains which have the same area. Each of the domains has,for example, a plurality of branches 156 extending from the first stem152 or the second stem 154. The branches 156 may be extended, forexample, in different directions in each of the domains. The branches156 form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 8, the branches 156 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different from the first and seconddirections D1 and D2.

Each of the branches 156 includes, for example, a first sub-branch 156a, a second sub-branch 156 b and a third sub-branch 156 c. The firstsub-branch 156 a extends, for example, in the third direction D3 fromthe first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The second sub-branch 156 bextends, for example, in the third direction D3 from the first stem 152or the second stem 154. The third sub-branch 156 c extends, for example,in the third direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem154. The first sub-branch 156 a, the second sub-branch 156 b and thethird sub-branch 156 c are connected to each other at a boundary of thefirst pixel electrode 150. Thus, an opening is formed between the firstsub-branch 156 a and the second sub-branch 156 b. In addition, anotheropening is formed between the second sub-branch 156 b and the thirdsub-branch 156 c. A side of each of the openings which is adjacent tothe boundary of the first pixel electrode 150 makes, for example, afirst angle (e.g., refers α of FIG. 6) with a line extending along theboundary.

Each of the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c is spacedapart from adjacent first, second or third second sub-branch 156 a, 156b or 156 c by a first space S1. The first to third sub-branches 156 a,156 b and 156 c have a first width W1. Thus, the first to thirdsub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c have, for example, a first pitch P1(P1=W1+S1). (e.g., refers to a fourth direction D4 perpendicular to thethird direction D3.)

The second pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 160 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c have asecond pitch, a second width, and a second space. Thus, any furtherdetailed descriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The third pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 170 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c have a thirdpitch, a third width, and a third space. Thus, any further detaileddescriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The first pitch P1 of the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and156 c of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,substantially the same as the second pitch of the first to thirdsub-branches of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the secondpitch of the first to third sub-branches of the second pixel electrode160 may be, for example, substantially the same as the third pitch ofthe first to third sub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

The first width W1 of the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and156 c of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,substantially the same as the second width of the first to thirdsub-branches of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the firstwidth W1 of the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c ofthe first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, smaller than thethird width of the first to third sub-branches of the third pixelelectrode 170.

The first space S1 of the first to third sub-branches 156 a, 156 b and156 c of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, larger thanthe second space of the first to third sub-branches of the second pixelelectrode 160. In addition, the first space S1 of the first to thirdsub-branches 156 a, 156 b and 156 c of the first pixel electrode 150 maybe, for example, larger than the third space of the first to thirdsub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

FIG. 9 is a partial enlarged view illustrating a first pixel electrodeof a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

Referring to FIG. 9, the first pixel electrode 150 is, for example,substantially the same as the first pixel electrode of FIG. 7, exceptthat a branch 156 includes first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b,156 c and 156 d. Thus, any further detailed descriptions concerning thesame elements will be omitted.

The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, a first stem 152, asecond stem 154, and a plurality of branches 156 extending from thefirst stem 152 or the second stem 154.

The first stem 152 extends, for example, in a first direction D1. Thesecond stem 154 extends, for example, in a second direction D2 which issubstantially perpendicular to the first direction D1, and crosses thefirst stem 152. The first stem 152 and the second stem 154 may, forexample, pass the center of the first pixel electrode 150, so that thefirst stem 152 and the second stem 154 divide the first pixel electrode150 into four domains which have the same area as each other. Each ofthe domains has, for example, a plurality of branches 156 extending fromthe first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The branches 156 may beextended, for example, in different directions in each of the domains.The branches 156 form, for example, a micro slit structure.

Referring again to FIG. 9, the branches 156 extend, for example, in athird direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. Thethird direction D3 is, for example, different form the first and seconddirections D1 and D2.

Each of the branches 156 includes, for example, a first sub-branch 156a, a second sub-branch 156 b, a third sub-branch 156 c and a fourthsub-branch 156 d. The first sub-branch 156 a extends, for example, inthe third direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154.The second sub-branch 156 b extends, for example, in the third directionD3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154. The third sub-branch156 c extends, for example, in the third direction D3 from the firststem 152 or the second stem 154. The fourth sub-branch 156 d extends inthe third direction D3 from the first stem 152 or the second stem 154.The first sub-branch 156 a, the second sub-branch 156 b, the thirdsub-branch 156 c and the fourth sub-branch 156 d are connected to eachother at a boundary of the first pixel electrode 150. Thus, an openingis formed between the first sub-branch 156 a and the second sub-branch156 b. In addition, another opening is formed between the secondsub-branch 156 b and the third sub-branch 156 c. In addition, stillanother opening is formed between the third sub-branch 156 c and thefourth sub-branch 156 d. A side of each of the openings which isadjacent to the boundary of the first pixel electrode 150 makes, forexample, a first angle (e.g, refers α of FIG. 6) with a line extendingalong the boundary.

Each of the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156 dis spaced apart from adjacent first, second, third or fourth secondsub-branch 156 a, 156 b, 156 c, 156 d by a first space S1. The first tofourth sub-branches 156 a. 156 b, 156 c and 156 d have a first width W1.Thus, the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156 dhave, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1). (e.g., refers to afourth direction D4 perpendicular to the third direction D3.)

The second pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 160 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156 d havea second pitch, a second width, and a second space. Thus, any furtherdetailed descriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The third pixel electrode (e.g., refers to 170 of FIG. 1) is, forexample, substantially the same as the first pixel electrode 150, exceptthat the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156 d havea third pitch, a third width, and a third space. Thus, any furtherdetailed descriptions concerning the same elements will be omitted.

The first pitch P1 of the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156c and 156 d of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,substantially the same as the second pitch of the first to fourthsub-branches of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the secondpitch of the first to fourth sub-branches of the second pixel electrode160 may be, for example, substantially the same as the third pitch ofthe first to fourth sub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

The first width W1 of the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156c and 156 d of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example,substantially the same as the second width of the first to fourthsub-branches of the second pixel electrode 160. In addition, the firstwidth W1 of the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156d of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, smaller than thethird width of the first to fourth sub-branches of the third pixelelectrode 170.

The first space S1 of the first to fourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156c and 156 d of the first pixel electrode 150 may be, for example, largerthan the second space of the first to fourth sub-branches of the secondpixel electrode 160. In addition, the first space S1 of the first tofourth sub-branches 156 a, 156 b, 156 c and 156 d of the first pixelelectrode 150 may be, for example, larger than the third space of thefirst to fourth sub-branches of the third pixel electrode 170.

FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a display panel according to anexemplary embodiment of the invention.

Referring to FIG. 10, a display panel includes, for example, a gate lineGL, a first high data line DLh1, a first low data line DLl1, a secondhigh data line DLh2, a second low data line DLl2, a third high data lineDLh3, a third low data line DLl3, a first high switching element SWh1, afirst low switching element SWl1, a second high switching element SWh2,a second low switching element SWl2, a third high switching elementSWh3, a third low switching element SWl3, a first high pixel electrode150 h, a first low pixel electrode 150 l, a second high pixel electrode160 h, a second low pixel electrode 160 l, a third high pixel electrode170 h, a third low pixel electrode 170 l and a shielding electrode SDE.

The gate line GL extends, for example, in a first direction D1. The gateline GL is electrically connected to the first high switching elementSWh1, the first low switching element SWl1, the second high switchingelement SWh2, the second low switching element SWl2, the third highswitching element SWh3 and the third low switching element SWl3. A gatesignal is applied to the gate line GL.

The first high data line DLh1 extends, for example, in a seconddirection D2 which is substantially perpendicular to the first directionD1. The first high data line DLh1 crosses the gate line GL. The firsthigh data line DLh1 is electrically connected to the first highswitching element SWh1.

The first low data line DLl1 extends, for example, in the seconddirection D2, and is spaced apart from the first high data line DLh1.The first low data line DLl1 crosses the gate line GL. The first lowdata line DLl1 is electrically connected to the first low switchingelement SWl1.

The second high data line DLh2 is adjacent to the first low data lineDLl1, and extends, for example, in the second direction D2. The secondhigh data line DLh2 crosses the gate line GL. The second high data lineDLh2 is electrically connected to the second high switching elementSWh2.

The second low data line DLl2 extends, for example, in the seconddirection D2, and is spaced apart from the second high data line DLh2.The second low data line DLl2 crosses the gate line GL. The second lowdata line DLl2 is electrically connected to the second low switchingelement SWl2.

The third high data line DLh3 extends, for example, in the seconddirection D2, and is spaced apart from the first high data line DLh1.The third high data line DLh3 crosses the gate line GL. The third highdata line DLh3 is, for example, disposed opposite to the second highdata line DLh2 with reference to the first high data line DLh1.

The third low data line DLl3 is adjacent to the first high data lineDLh1, and extends, for example, in the second direction D2. The thirdlow data line DLl3 crosses the gate line GL. The third low data lineDLl3 is electrically connected to the third low switching element SWl3.

The first high pixel electrode 150 h is disposed adjacent to the gateline GL, and between the first high data line DLh1 and the first lowdata line DLl1. The first high pixel electrode 150 h is electricallyconnected to the first high switching element SWh1. The first high pixelelectrode 150 h includes, for example, a plurality of branches forming amicro-slit pattern.

The first low pixel electrode 150 l is disposed opposite to the firsthigh pixel electrode 150 h with reference to the gate line GL, andbetween the first high data line DLh1 and the first low data line DLl1.The first low pixel electrode 150 l is electrically connected to thefirst low switching element SWl1. The first low pixel electrode 150 lincludes, for example, a plurality of branches forming a micro-slitpattern.

The second high pixel electrode 160 h is disposed adjacent to the gateline GL, and between the second high data line DLh2 and the second lowdata line DLl2. The second high pixel electrode 160 h is electricallyconnected to the second high switching element SWh2. The second highpixel electrode 160 h includes, for example, a plurality of branchesforming a micro-slit pattern.

The second low pixel electrode 160 l is disposed opposite to the secondhigh pixel electrode 160 h with reference to the gate line GL, andbetween the second high data line DLh2 and the second low data lineDLl2. The second low pixel electrode 160 l is electrically connected tothe second low switching element SWl2. The second low pixel electrode160 l includes, for example, a plurality of branches forming amicro-slit pattern.

The third high pixel electrode 170 h is disposed adjacent to the gateline GL, and between the third high data line DLh3 and the third lowdata line DLl3. The third high pixel electrode 170 h is electricallyconnected to the third high switching element SWh3. The third high pixelelectrode 170 h includes, for example, a plurality of branches forming amicro-slit pattern.

The third low pixel electrode 170 l is disposed opposite to the thirdhigh pixel electrode 170 h with reference to the gate line GL, andbetween the third high data line DLh3 and the third low data line DLl3.The third low pixel electrode 170 l is electrically connected to thethird low switching element SWl3. The third low pixel electrode 170 lincludes, for example, a plurality of branches forming a micro-slitpattern.

The shielding electrode SDE extends, for example, in the seconddirection D2, and overlaps the first to third high data lines and thefirst to third low data lines DLh1 DLl1, DLh2, DLl2, DLh3 and DLl3. Ashielding voltage is applied to the shielding electrode SDE. Forexample, a common voltage which is applied to a common electrode (e.g.,refers to 220 of FIG. 11) may be applied to the shielding electrode SDE.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line III-III′ of FIG.10. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line IV-IV′ of FIG.10.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a display panel includes, for example, afirst substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate, and aliquid crystal layer 3 disposed between the first and second substrate.

The first substrate includes, for example, a first base substrate 100, agate pattern, a first insulation layer 110, a channel layer, a datapattern, a first color filter 122, a second color filter 124, a thirdcolor filter 126, a second insulation layer 130, a first high pixelelectrode 150 h, a first low pixel electrode 150 l, a second high pixelelectrode 160 h, a second low pixel electrode 160 l, a third high pixelelectrode 170 h, a third low pixel electrode 170 l, a shieldingelectrode SDE and a black matrix BM.

The first base substrate 100 may include, for example, a material whichhas relatively high transmittance, thermal resistance, and chemicalresistance. For example, the first base substrate 100 may include anyone selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, or plastic.Further, in an embodiment, the first base substrate 100 may be, forexample, a flexible substrate. Suitable materials for the flexiblesubstrate include, for example, polyethylenenaphthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, polyacryl, polyimide, polyethersulfone, polyvinylchloride, and a mixture thereof.

The gate pattern is disposed on the first base substrate 100. The gatepattern includes, for example, a gate line (e.g., refers to GL of FIG.1), a first gate electrode, a second gate electrode and a third gateelectrode.

The first insulation layer 110 is disposed on the first base substrate100 on which the gate pattern is disposed. The first insulation layer110 covers and insulates the gate line, the first gate electrode GE1,the second gate electrode and the third gate electrode.

The channel layer is disposed on the first insulation layer 110. Thechannel layer includes, for example, a first channel portion, a secondchannel portion and a third channel portion. The first channel portion,for example, overlaps the first gate electrode. The second channelportion, for example, overlaps the second gate electrode. The thirdchannel portion, for example, overlaps the third gate electrode.

The data pattern is disposed on the channel layer. The data patternincludes, for example, a first drain electrode, a first sourceelectrode, a second drain electrode, a second source electrode, a thirddrain electrode, a third source electrode, a first high data line DLh1,a first low data line DLl1, a second high data line DLh2, a second lowdata line DLl2, a third high data line DLh3 and a third low data lineDLl3.

The first gate electrode, the first drain electrode, the first sourceelectrode and the first channel portion compose a first switchingelement (e.g., refers to SW1 of FIG. 10). The second gate electrode, thesecond drain electrode, the second source electrode and the secondchannel portion compose a second switching element (e.g., refers to SW2of FIG. 10). The third gate electrode, the third drain electrode, thethird source electrode and the third channel portion compose a thirdswitching element (e.g., refers to SW3 of FIG. 10).

The first color filter 122 is disposed on the first insulation layer110, and between the third low data line DLl1 and the second high dataline DLh2. The first color filter 122 supplies colors to the lightpassing through the liquid crystal layer 3. The first color filter 122may have a first color. For example, the first color filter 122 may be ared color filter which passes a red light. The first color filter 122has a first thickness.

The second color filter 124 is disposed on the first insulation layer110 on which the first color filter 122 is disposed, and between thefirst low data line DLl1 and a third high data line of an adjacent pixelin a first direction (e.g., refers to D1 of FIG. 10). The second colorfilter 124 supplies colors to the light passing through the liquidcrystal layer 3. The second color filter 124 may have a second color.For example, the second color filter 124 may be a green color filterwhich passes a green light. The second color filter 124 has a secondthickness.

A boundary of the first color filter 122 and a boundary of the secondcolor filter 124, for example, overlap each other between on the firstlow data line DLl1 and the second high data line DLh2. Thus, the firstcolor filter 122 covers the first low data line DLl1. The second colorfilter 124 disposed on the first low data line DLl1, so that the secondcolor filter 124, for example, partially overlaps the first color filter122.

The third color filter 126 is disposed on the first insulation layer 110on which the first and second color filters 122 and 124 are disposed,and between the first high data line DLh1 and a second low data lineDLl2 of an adjacent pixel in the first direction. The third color filter126 supplies colors to the light passing through the liquid crystallayer 3. The third color filter 126 may have a third color. For example,the third color filter 126 may be a blue color filter which passes ablue light. The third color filter 126 has a third thickness.

A boundary of the third color filter 126 and a boundary of the firstcolor filter 122, for example, overlap each other between on the thirdlow data line DLl3 and the first high data line DLh1. Thus, the firstcolor filter 122 covers the first high data line DLh1. The third colorfilter 126 is disposed on the first high data line DLh1, so that thethird color filter 126, for example, partially overlaps the first colorfilter 122.

The first thickness, the second thickness, and the third thickness maybe same each other or different from each other according to amanufacturing process of the color filters. For example, the firstthickness may be smaller than the second and third thickness.

The second insulation layer 130 is disposed on the first to third colorfilters 122, 124 and 126. The second insulation layer 130 flattens,protects and insulates the first to third color filters 122, 124 and126.

The first high pixel electrode 150 h is disposed on the secondinsulation layer 130, and is electrically connected to the first highswitching element SWh1. The first high pixel electrode 150 h mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The first high pixel electrode 150 h includes, for example, first andsecond stems, and branches (e.g., refers to FIG. 4). The branches of thefirst high pixel electrode 150 h form, for example, a micro slitstructure. The branch of the first high pixel electrode 150 h is spacedapart from an adjacent branch by a first space S1, and has a first widthW1. Thus, the branches have, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).

The first low pixel electrode 150 l is disposed on the second insulationlayer 130, and is electrically connected to the first low switchingelement SWl1. The first low pixel electrode 150 l may include, forexample, a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide(ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmiumzinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO). The first lowpixel electrode 150 l includes, for example, first and second stems, andbranches (e.g., refers to FIG. 4). The branches of the first low pixelelectrode 150 l form, for example, a micro slit structure. The branch ofthe first low pixel electrode 150 l is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch by a first space S1, and has a first width W1. Thus, the brancheshave, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).

The second high pixel electrode 160 h is disposed on the secondinsulation layer 130, and is electrically connected to the second highswitching element SWh2. The second high pixel electrode 160 h mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The second high pixel electrode 160 h includes, for example, first andsecond stems, and branches (refers to FIG. 5). The branches of thesecond high pixel electrode 160 h form, for example, a micro slitstructure. The branch of the second high pixel electrode 160 h is spacedapart from an adjacent branch by a second space S2, and has a secondwidth W2. Thus, the branches have, for example, a second pitch P2(P2=W2+S2).

The second low pixel electrode 160 l is disposed on the secondinsulation layer 130, and is electrically connected to the second lowswitching element SWl2. The second low pixel electrode 160 l mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The second low pixel electrode 160 l includes, for example, first andsecond stems, and branches (refers to FIG. 5). The branches of thesecond low pixel electrode 160 l form, for example, a micro slitstructure. The branch of the second low pixel electrode 160 l is spacedapart from an adjacent branch by a second space S2, and has a secondwidth W2. Thus, the branches have, for example, a second pitch P2(P2=W2+S2).

The third high pixel electrode 170 h is disposed on the secondinsulation layer 130, and electrically connected to the third highswitching electrode SWh3. The third high pixel electrode 170 h mayinclude, for example, a transparent conductive material, such as indiumtin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide(AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).The third high pixel electrode 170 h includes, for example, first andsecond stems, and branches (e.g., refers to FIG. 5). The branches of thethird high pixel electrode 170 h form, for example, a micro slitstructure. The branch of the third high pixel electrode 170 h is spacedapart from an adjacent branch by a third space S3, and has a third widthW3. Thus, the branches have, for example, a third pitch P3 (P3=W3+S3).

The third low pixel electrode 170 l is disposed on the second insulationlayer 130, and electrically connected to the third low switchingelectrode SWl3. The third low pixel electrode 170 l may include, forexample, a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide(ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmiumzinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO). The third lowpixel electrode 170 l includes, for example, first and second stems, andbranches (e.g., refers to FIG. 5). The branches of the third low pixelelectrode 170 l form, for example, a micro slit structure. The branch ofthe third low pixel electrode 170 l is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch by a third space S3, and has a third width W3. Thus, the brancheshave, for example, a third pitch P3 (P3=W3+S3).

The black matrix BM is disposed on, for example, the second insulationlayer 130 on which the first to third high and low pixel electrodes aredisposed. The black matrix BM includes a light blocking martial. Theblack matrix BM may be disposed in, for example, a peripheral areaadjacent to a display area on which an image is disposed. Thus, theblack matrix BM may, for example, overlap the first to third high andlow switching elements SWh1, SWl1, SWh2, SWl2, SWh3 and SWl3, the gateline GL, and the first to third high and low data lines DLh1, DLh2,DLh3, DLl1, DLl2 and DLl3.

The second substrate includes, for example, a second base substrate 200and a common electrode 220.

The second base substrate 200 may include, for example, a material whichhas relatively high transmittance, thermal resistance, and chemicalresistance. For example, the second base substrate 200 may include anyone selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, or plastic.Further, in an embodiment, the second base substrate 200 may be, forexample, a flexible substrate. Suitable materials for the flexiblesubstrate include, for example, polyethylenenaphthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, polyacryl, polyimide, polyethersulfone, polyvinylchloride, and a mixture thereof.

The common electrode 220 is disposed on the second base substrate 200.The common electrode 220 may include, for example, a transparentconductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide(IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) oramorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).

The liquid crystal layer 3 is disposed between the first substrate andthe second substrate. The liquid crystal layer 3 includes liquid crystalmolecules having optical anisotropy. The liquid crystal molecules aredriven by electric field, so that an image is displayed by passing orblocking light through the liquid crystal layer 3.

FIGS. 13A to 13H are cross-sectional views illustrating a method ofmanufacturing the display panel of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 13A, a metal layer is formed on a first base substrate100, and then the metal layer may be, for example, partially etched by aphotolithography process or an etching process using an additionaletching mask. Hence, a gate pattern is formed.

The gate pattern includes, for example, a gate line (e.g., refers to GLof FIG. 1), a first gate electrode (e.g., refers to GE1 of FIG. 2), asecond gate electrode and a third gate electrode.

A first insulation layer 110 is formed on the first base substrate 100on which the gate pattern is formed. The first insulation layer 110 maybe formed by, for example, a spin coating process, a printing process, asputtering process, a CVD process, an ALD process, a PECVD process, anHDP-CVD process or a vacuum evaporation process in accordance withingredients included in first insulation layer 11.0

Referring to FIG. 13B, a semiconductor layer and a metal layer areformed on the first insulation layer 110, and then the semiconductorlayer and the metal layer may be, for example, partially etched by aphotolithography process or an etching process using an additionaletching mask. Hence, a channel layer CH including, for example, first tothird channel portions and a data pattern are formed. The semiconductorlayer may include, for example, a silicon semiconductor layer consistingof amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) and an ohmic contact layer consisting ofn+ amorphous silicon (n+ a-Si:H). In addition, the semiconductor layermay include, for example, an oxide semiconductor. The oxidesemiconductor may include, for example, an amorphous oxide including atleast one selected from the group consisting of indium (In), zinc (Zn),gallium (Ga), tin (Sn) and hafnium (Hf).

The data pattern includes, for example, first to third drain electrodes,first to third source electrodes and first to third data lines DL1, DL2and DL3. For example, the semiconductor layer and the metal layer arepatterned at the same time, and then a portion of the metal layer, whichis patterned, is removed. Hence, the first source electrode and thefirst drain electrode spaced apart from the first source electrode maybe formed by, for example, removing a portion of the patterned metallayer. In addition, the second source electrode and the second drainelectrode spaced apart from the second source electrode may be formedby, for example, removing a portion of the patterned metal layer. Inaddition, the third source electrode and the third drain electrodespaced apart from the third source electrode may be formed by, forexample, removing a portion of the patterned metal layer.

The first drain electrode, the first source electrode, the first channelportion and the first gate electrode form a first switching element(e.g., refers to SW1 of FIG. 1).

The second drain electrode, the second source electrode, the secondchannel portion and the second gate electrode form a second switchingelement (e.g., refers to SW2 of FIG. 1).

The third drain electrode, the third source electrode, the third channelportion and the third gate electrode form a third switching element(e.g., refers to SW3 of FIG. 1).

Referring to FIG. 13C, a first color filter 122 is formed on the firstinsulation layer 110 on which the data pattern is formed. The firstcolor filter 122 includes a first color. For example, the first colorfilter 122 may be a red color filter which passes a red light. The firstcolor filter 122 has a first thickness t1.

Referring to FIG. 13D, a second color filter 124 is formed on the firstinsulation layer 110 on which the first color filter 122 is formed. Thesecond color filter 124 may have a second color. For example, the secondcolor filter 124 may be a green color filter which passes a green light.The second color filter 124 has a second thickness t2. The first colorfilter 122 and the second color filter 124 may, for example, beoverlapped with each other.

Referring to FIG. 13E, a third color filter 126 is formed on the firstinsulation layer 110 on which the first and second color filters 122 and124 are formed. The third color filter 126 may have a third color. Forexample, the third color filter 126 may be a blue color filter whichpasses a blue light. The third color filter 126 has a third thicknesst3. The third color filter 126 may, for example, partially overlap thefirst color filter 122. In addition, the third color filter 126 may, forexample, partially overlap a second color filter 122 of an adjacentpixel.

Referring to FIG. 13F, a second insulation layer 130 is formed on thefirst to third color filters 122, 124 and 136. The second insulationlayer 130 flattens, protects and insulates the first to third colorfilters 122, 124 and 126. A first contact hole (e.g., refers to H1 ofFIG. 1), a second contact hole (e.g., refers to H2 of FIG. 1), and athird contact hole (e.g., refers to H3 of FIG. 1) are formed through thesecond insulation layer 130. The first contact hole exposes the firstdrain electrode of the first switching element. The second contact holeexposes the second drain electrode of the second switching element. Thethird contact hole exposes the third drain electrode of the thirdswitching element.

Referring to FIG. 13G, a transparent conductive layer is formed on thesecond insulation layer 130, and then transparent conductive layer may,for example, be partially etched by a photolithography process or anetching process using an additional etching mask. Hence, a first pixelelectrode 150, a second pixel electrode 160, a third pixel electrode 170and a shielding electrode SDE are formed. The transparent conductivelayer may include, for example, a transparent conductive material, suchas indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zincoxide (AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) or amorphous indium tin oxide(a-ITO).

The first pixel electrode 150 is electrically connected to the firstdrain electrode of the first switching element through the first contacthole. The first pixel electrode 150 includes, for example, first andsecond stems and branches (e.g., refers to FIG. 4). The branches of thefirst pixel electrode 150 may form, for example, a micro slit structure.The branch of the first pixel electrode 150 is spaced apart from anadjacent branch by a first space S1, and has a first width W1. Thus, thebranches have, for example, a first pitch P1 (P1=W1+S1).

The second pixel electrode 160 is electrically connected to the seconddrain electrode of the second switching element through the secondcontact hole. The second pixel electrode 160 includes, for example,first and second stems and branches (refers to FIG. 5). The branches ofthe second pixel electrode 160 may form, for example, a micro slitstructure. The branch of the second pixel electrode 160 is spaced apartfrom an adjacent branch by a second space S2, and has a second width W2.Thus, the branches have, for example, a second pitch P2 (P2=W2+S2).

The third pixel electrode 170 is electrically connected to the thirddrain electrode of the third switching element through the third contacthole. The third pixel electrode 170 includes, for example, first andsecond stems and branches (e.g., refers to FIG. 5). The branches ofthird pixel electrode 170 may form, for example, a micro slit structure.The branch of third pixel electrode 170 is spaced apart from an adjacentbranch by a third space S3, and has a third width W3. Thus, the brancheshave, for example, a third pitch P3 (P3=W3+S3).

Referring to FIG. 13H, a black matrix BM is formed on, for example, asecond substrate 200. The black matrix BM includes a light blockingmaterial. The black matrix BM may be disposed, for example, in aperipheral area adjacent to a display area on which an image isdisposed.

An over-coating layer 210 is formed on the second base substrate 200 onwhich the black matrix BM is formed. The over-coating layer 210 protectsthe black matrix BM. The over-coating layer 210 may include, forexample, an acrylic-epoxy material.

A common electrode 220 may be disposed on the over-coating layer 210.The common electrode 220 may include, for example, a transparentconductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide(IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), cadmium zinc oxide (CZO) oramorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO).

The first base substrate 100, the gate pattern, the first insulationlayer 110, the channel layer CH, the data pattern, the first to thirdcolor filters 122, 124 and 126, the second insulation layer 130, thefirst to third pixel electrodes 150, 160 and 170 compose a firstsubstrate. The second base substrate 200, the black matrix BM, theover-coating layer 210 and the common electrode 220 compose a secondsubstrate facing the first substrate.

A liquid crystal layer 3 is formed between the first substrate and thesecond substrate. The liquid crystal layer 3 includes liquid crystalmolecules having optical anisotropy.

According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a displaypanel includes a first pixel electrode including branches having a firstwidth, a second pixel electrode including branches having a secondwidth, and a third pixel electrode including branches having a thirdwidth. The first width is smaller than the second or third width, sothat a texture formed at the boundary of the first pixel electrode maybe decreased. Thus, the display quality of the display panel may beincreased.

In addition, the display panel includes a first color filtercorresponding to the first pixel electrode, a second color filtercorresponding to the second pixel electrode and a third color filtercorresponding to the third pixel electrode. The first width of the firstpixel electrode is smaller than the second width of the second electrodeor the third width of the third electrode, so that a texture formed atthe boundary of the first pixel electrode may be decreased. Thus,display quality of the display panel may be increased.

In addition, a boundary shape of the first to third pixel electrodes hasan open or closed structure, so that a texture at a display area of thedisplay panel may be decreased. Thus, the display quality of the displaypanel may be increased.

In addition, the first to third pixel electrodes include a sloped sidehaving a first angle at a boundary of the pixel electrode, so that atexture at a display area of the display panel may be decreased. Thus,the display quality of the display panel may be increased.

Having described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it isfurther noted that it is readily apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art that various modifications may be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention which is defined by the metes andbounds of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A display panel comprising: a first data line; asecond data line spaced apart from the first data line; a third dataline spaced apart from the first data line; a first switching electrodeelectrically connected to the first data line; a second switchingelectrode electrically connected to the second data line; a thirdswitching electrode electrically connected to the third data line; afirst pixel electrode electrically connected to the first switchingelectrode, and comprising a plurality of first branches forming microslits; a second pixel electrode electrically connected to the secondswitching electrode, and comprising a plurality of second branchesforming micro slits; and a third pixel electrode electrically connectedto the third switching electrode, and comprising a plurality of thirdbranches forming micro slits, wherein the first branches are spacedapart from each other by a first space, and have a first width, whereinthe second branches are spaced apart from each other by a second space,and have a second width, wherein the third branches are spaced apartfrom each other by a third space, and have a third width, and wherein atleast one of the first width, the second width and the third width isdifferent from the other widths.
 2. The display panel of claim 1,wherein the first width is smaller than the second width and the thirdwidth.
 3. The display panel of claim 2, wherein the second width issubstantially the same as the third width.
 4. The display panel of claim3, wherein a first pitch is defined by a sum of the first space and thefirst width, a second pitch is defined by a sum of the second space andthe second width, a third pitch is defined by a sum of the third spaceand the third width, and wherein the first pitch, the second pitch andthe third pitch are substantially the same as each other.
 5. The displaypanel of claim 3, wherein the first pitch, the second pitch and thethird pitch are each about 6 micrometers (μm), and wherein the firstwidth is about 3.4 μm, and the second width and the third width are eachabout 3.5 μm.
 6. The display panel of claim 2, wherein the first pixelelectrode comprises a first stem extending in a first direction and asecond stem crossing the first stem and extending in a second directionwhich is substantially perpendicular to the first direction, wherein thefirst branches extend from the first stem or the second stem in a thirddirection which is different from the first and second directions,wherein the second pixel electrode comprises a first stem extending inthe first direction and a second stem crossing the first stem andextending in the second direction, wherein the second branches extendfrom the first stem or the second stem in the third direction, whereinthe third pixel electrode comprises a first stem extending in the firstdirection and a second stem crossing the first stem and extending in thesecond direction, and wherein the third branches extend from the firststem or the second stem in the third direction.
 7. The display panel ofclaim 6, wherein ends of an adjacent pair of the first branches areconnected with each other at a boundary of the first pixel electrodesuch that the ends of the adjacent pair of first branches form a closedstructure.
 8. The display panel of claim 6, wherein ends of an adjacentpair of the first branches at a boundary of the first pixel electrodeare spaced apart from each other such that the ends of the adjacent pairof the first branches form an opened structure.
 9. The display panel ofclaim 7, wherein the first branches of the closed structure adjacent toeach other form an opening, and wherein a side of opening which isadjacent to the boundary of the first pixel electrode makes a firstangle with a line which extends along the boundary of the first pixelelectrode.
 10. The display panel of claim 2, further comprising: a firstcolor filter overlapping with the first pixel electrode and having afirst color; a second color filter overlapping with the second pixelelectrode and having a second color different from the first color; anda third color filter overlapping with the third pixel electrode andhaving a third color different from the first color and the secondcolor.
 11. The display panel of claim 10, wherein a boundary of thesecond color filter overlaps with a first boundary of the first colorfilter, wherein a boundary of the third color filter overlaps with asecond boundary of the first color filter, and wherein the secondboundary is disposed opposite to the first boundary of the first colorfilter.
 12. The display panel of claim 11, wherein the first color ofthe first color filter is red.
 13. The display panel of claim 12,wherein the first color filter has a first thickness, the second colorfilter has a second thickness, and the third color filter has a thirdthickness, and wherein the first thickness is smaller than the secondthickness and the third thickness.
 14. The display panel of claim 2,wherein the first data line comprises a first high data line and a firstlow data line, the second data line comprises a second high data lineand a second low data line, the third data line comprises a third highdata line and a third low data line, wherein the first switching elementcomprises a first high switching element electrically connected to thefirst high data line and a first low switching element electricallyconnected to the first low data line, the second switching elementcomprises a second high switching element electrically connected to thesecond high data line and a second low switching element electricallyconnected to the second low data line, the third switching elementcomprises a third high switching element electrically connected to thethird high data line and a third low switching element electricallyconnected to the third low data line, wherein the first pixel electrodecomprises a first high pixel electrode electrically connected to thefirst high switching element and a first low pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the first low switching element, wherein thesecond pixel electrode comprises a second high pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the second high switching element and a secondlow pixel electrode electrically connected to the second low switchingelement, and wherein the third pixel electrode comprises a third highpixel electrode electrically connected to the third high switchingelement and a third low pixel electrode electrically connected to thethird low switching element.
 15. The display panel of claim 2, furthercomprises a shielding electrode disposed between the first pixelelectrode, the second pixel electrode and the third pixel electrode,wherein the shielding electrode overlaps with the first data line, thesecond data line and the third data line.
 16. A method of manufacturinga display panel comprising: forming a first switching element, a secondswitching element and a third switching element on a base substrate; andforming a first pixel electrode, a second pixel electrode, and a thirdpixel electrode which are respectively connected to the first switchingelement, the second switching element and the third switching element onthe base substrate on which the first switching element, the secondswitching element, and the third switching element are formed, whereinthe first pixel electrode comprises a plurality of first branches havinga first width, the first branches are spaced apart from each other by afirst space, wherein the second pixel electrode comprises a plurality ofsecond branches having a second width, the second branches are spacedapart from each other by a second space, and wherein the third pixelelectrode comprises a plurality of third branches having a third width,the third branches are spaced apart from each other by a third space.17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first width is smaller than thesecond width and the third width.
 18. The method of claim 17, whereinends of an adjacent pair of the first branches are connected with eachother at a boundary of the first pixel electrode such that the ends ofthe adjacent pair of the first branches form a closed structure.
 19. Themethod of claim 17, wherein ends of an adjacent pair of the firstbranches at a boundary of the first pixel electrode are spaced apartfrom each other such that the ends of the adjacent pair of the firstbranches form an opened structure.
 20. The method of claim 17, whereinbefore the forming of the first pixel electrode, the second pixelelectrode and the third pixel electrode, the method further comprising:forming a first color filter corresponding to the first pixel electrodeon the base substrate on which the first pixel electrode, the secondpixel electrode, and the third pixel electrode are formed, the firstcolor filter having a first color; forming a second color filtercorresponding to the second pixel electrode on the base substrate onwhich the first color filter is formed, the second color filter having asecond color; and forming a third color filter corresponding to thethird pixel electrode on the base substrate on which the first colorfilter and the second color filter are formed, the third color filterhaving a second color.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein a boundary ofthe second color filter overlaps with a first boundary of the firstcolor filter, wherein a boundary of the third color filter overlaps witha second boundary of the first color filter, and wherein the secondboundary is disposed opposite to the first boundary of the first colorfilter.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first color filter has afirst thickness, the second color filter has a second thickness, and thethird color filter has a third thickness, and wherein the firstthickness is smaller than the second thickness and the third thickness.23. A display panel comprising: a first data line; a second data linespaced apart from the first data line; a third data line spaced apartfrom the first data line; a first switching electrode electricallyconnected to the first data line; a second switching electrodeelectrically connected to the second data line; a third switchingelectrode electrically connected to the third data line; a first pixelelectrode electrically connected to the first switching electrode, andcomprising a plurality of first branches forming micro slits, whereinthe first branches include a first sub-branch and a second sub-branchconnected to each other at a boundary of the first pixel electrode suchthat a first opening is defined between the first sub-branch and thesecond sub-branch and wherein a side of the first opening which isadjacent to the boundary of the first pixel electrode makes a firstangle with a line extending along the boundary of the first pixelelectrode, wherein the first sub-branches and the second sub-branches ofthe first branches of the first pixel electrode are spaced apart fromadjacent first and second sub-branches of the first pixel electrode by afirst space, and have a first width; a second pixel electrodeelectrically connected to the second switching electrode, and comprisinga plurality of second branches forming micro slits, wherein the secondbranches include a first sub-branch and a second sub-branch connected toeach other at a boundary of the second pixel electrode such that asecond opening is defined between the first sub-branch and the secondsub-branch and wherein a side of the second opening which is adjacent tothe boundary of the second pixel electrode makes a second angle with aline extending along the boundary of the second pixel electrode, whereinthe first sub-branches and the second sub-branches of the secondbranches of the second pixel electrode are spaced apart from adjacentfirst and second sub-branches of the second pixel electrode by a secondspace, and have a second width; and a third pixel electrode electricallyconnected to the third switching electrode, and comprising a pluralityof third branches forming micro slits, wherein the third branchesinclude a first sub-branch and a second sub-branch connected to eachother at a boundary of the third pixel electrode such that a thirdopening is defined between the first sub-branch and the secondsub-branch and wherein a side of the third opening which is adjacent tothe boundary of the third pixel electrode makes a third angle with aline extending along the boundary of the third pixel electrode, whereinthe first sub-branches and the second sub-branches of the third branchesof the third pixel electrode are spaced apart from adjacent first andsecond sub-branches of the third pixel electrode by a third space, andhave a third width, and wherein at least one of the first width, thesecond width and the third width is different from the other widths. 24.The display panel of claim 23, wherein the first branches of the firstpixel electrode further include a third-sub branch, wherein the firstsub-branch, the second sub-branch and the third sub-branch of the firstpixel electrode are connected to each other at the boundary of the firstpixel electrode, such that the first opening is defined between thefirst and second sub-branches of the first pixel electrode and a fourthopening is defined between the second sub-branch and the thirdsub-branch of the first pixel electrode.
 25. The display panel of claim24, wherein the first branches of the first pixel electrode furtherinclude a fourth-sub branch, wherein the first sub-branch, the secondsub-branch, the third sub-branch and the fourth sub-branch of the firstpixel electrode are connected to each other at the boundary of the firstpixel electrode, such that the first opening is defined between thefirst and second sub-branches of the first pixel electrode, the fourthopening is defined between the second sub-branch and the thirdsub-branch of the first pixel electrode and a fifth opening is definedbetween the third sub-branch and the fourth sub-branch of the firstpixel electrode.